Hamilton County Business Magazine February/March 2011

Focus: Progress and Transportation

February • March 2011

Carmel City Center opens for business Plus...

Fishers’ Asian Connection Saving Money on Workers Comp Seeking Sushi in HC

Rick McCool, COO, Pedcor Homes Melissa Averitt, Marketing and Sales Director, Carmel City Center

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If someone tells you to “XYZ PDQ”, what should you examine pretty darn quick?

What city was Indiana’s first state capital (1816-1825)?

Think you know the answers?

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These are actual questions from Promising Futures’ second annual

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2

February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

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JO UIF SFTJMJFODZ PG UIF IVNBO TQJSJU www.hamiltoncountybusiness.com Published six times per year by the Hamilton County Media Group PO Box 502, Noblesville, IN 46061 • 317-774-7747

Editor/Publisher Mike Corbett ~ mcorbett@hamiltoncountybusiness.com

No matter the challenges, we know that things can be better if we aspire to achieve them. That’s something we all share. The unshakeable belief that we can make a difference in our own lives, in the lives of others, and in the lives of our communities.

Help us help individuals, businesses, and our communities aspire to something better.

Find out how at aspireindiana.org.

Creative Director Melanie Malone ~ melzee@indy.rr.com Correspondents Deb Buehler ~ deb@thesweetestwords.com Rosalyn Demaree ~ ros_demaree@hotmail.com William Fouts ~ wfouts@mac.com Shari Held ~ sharih@comcast.net Scott Tyree ~ styree@financialformsandsystems.com Martha Yoder ~ klmyoder@sbcglobal.net

aspireindiana.org Š

2010 Aspire Indiana,Inc.

Contributors Emmett Dulaney DBA ~ eadulaney@anderson.edu David Heighway ~ heighwayd@earthlink.net Robby Slaughter ~ rslaughter@slaughterdevelopment.com J. Michelle Sybesma ~ jms@skillsconsulting.com Susan Young ~ syoung@aimfiremarketing.com Scott Treadway ~ scott@estlawllc.com

Please send news items and photos to news@hamiltoncountybusiness.com Submission does not guarantee publication

Hamilton County’s Only Locally Owned Bank

Subscription $20/year To subscribe or advertise, contact Mike Corbett at mcorbett@hamiltoncountybusiness.com

830 Logan Street • Noblesville • 773-0800 8 Convenient Hamilton County Locations cbindianaonline.com

Copyright 2011 Hamilton County Media Group.

All rights reserved.

Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2011

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February/March

’11

Features

12 16 22 24

Carmel City Center 2010 in Review

Entrepreneur

10 Michelle’s Got It Covered 19 Legal 20 Marketing 21 Management 26 The Pitch-In

Fishers’ Asian Connection Profile artist Greg Knipe

Cover photo by Mark Lee, Great Exposures

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February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

27 Dining Out 28 Chamber Pages 34 Hamilton County History 35 Business Resource Directory

Fine Tuned Living

HEALTH -1,

" , -Âś The Chambers of Commerce in Hamilton County have the solution for you!

The Chambers of Commerce in Hamilton County have partnered with ADVANTAGE Health Solutions, Inc.SM (ADVANTAGE) to offer a unique group health insurance product to our members.

THE RESIDENCES at CARMEL CITY CENTER Interior Highlights • • • • • • • •

Vast Living Spaces with 1, 2, & 3 Bedroom Apartments Designer Touches Including 9’ Ceilings, Crown Molding and Pendant Accent Lighting Large Windows for Natural Light Full-size Washer and Dryer Connections Incredible Closets with Organizers Kitchens Featuring Stainless Steel Appliances Incredible Views Floorplans with OďŹƒce/Den/Media Space

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24 Hour Health Club with Personal Trainers and Private Training Rooms Yoga/Pilates Center Refreshment and Coee Bar E-lounge with Wireless Access and Flat Screen TV Conference Room Concierge Services Direct Access to the Monon Trail Coming Soon! Plaza-Level Shopping, Dining and Entertainment

As a business member of a Hamilton County Chamber of Commerce, you are eligible to participate in the group health insurance offered through ADVANTAGE as long as you have at least two or more employees. The group health insurance is offered exclusively through ADVANTAGE at a discounted rate.

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To find an Edward Jones financial advisor near you, call 1-800-ED-JONES. Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2011

5

Letter from the Editor/February • March 2011 The Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts is opening as this edition goes into the mail. Carmel’s new concert hall is a gorgeous building that will serve the community for generations. I’m looking forward to spending hours there listening to beautiful music and enjoying the splendor of the place.

Opening with a little less fanfare just to the east of the Palladium, Carmel City Center is offering its own unique lifestyle experience. The mixed use development signed its first resident last year and its first business tenant has moved in. Retail is soon to follow. Our cover story this edition reviews this public/private partnership that’s part of downtown Carmel’s transformation. As these two projects approach completion (with additional theaters soon to come) you can start to see the vision becoming reality. It’s an exciting time for Carmel and we’re excited to be around to witness it.

Mike Corbett Editor and Publisher

A new marketing opportunity for you

Have you been considering launching a blog for your business but don’t know where or how to start? We have an idea for you. We’ve assembled some people who may not have your expertise but are great writers. We will match that writing talent with your industry-specific knowledge, generating useful information for our readers and helping your business “get found” by internet searchers on Google, Yahoo, and Bing.

We’re calling it the Hamilton County Business Online Information Connection. It will be a part of our website, www.hamiltoncountybusiness.com, and each expert will be exclusive in their category of business. We’ve designed it as an affordable way for you to promote yourself as an expert in your field, even if you have no desire to write regularly. Let me know if you’re interested: mcorbett@hamiltoncountybusiness.com.

Civility

There’s a lot of talk lately about the tone of our political discourse. That’s a valuable discussion and long overdue. Our politicians will get a lot more done when they stop demonizing each other and work together to find solutions to our very tough problems.

While we’re on the topic, I’d like to take the opportunity to encourage civility in another arena. Although I started my newspaper career in sales, until I started this business a couple of years ago I’d been in management for some 15 years on and off the sales floor. As the sales chief here I am back in sales and I’m reminded just how tough that job can be, especially in a slow economy. But, the old adage is true: “Nothing happens until someone sells something.” Salespeople are the foot soldiers of capitalism; they do a tough job and we need them. So, hug a salesperson today…or at least return their phone call.

Editor and Publisher

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February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

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Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2011

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Entrepreneur Emmett Dulaney

The Limitations of Limited Liability You may have more exposure than the name suggests

The Limited Liability Company (LLC) is one of the most popular types of business entities. Among its attractions: it’s easy to set one up (you can fill out the forms online at www.in.gov). But many are drawn to the promise of that title – “limited liability.” In fact, if you look at the Frequently Asked Questions on the Indiana Department of Revenue site, you’ll find the following definition (I added the underlines for emphasis): Limited liability company (LLC*) – A business structure that blends some characteristics of a partnership and a corporation. Liabilities are limited to the owner’s agreed investment in the business. A LLC is an entity formed under state law by filing articles of organization. None of the members of an LLC are personally liable for the business’s debt.

There are a number of situations where the veil can be pierced and they almost always involve some form of negligence…

Most of the time the underlined phrases are accurate, but to not acknowledge situations where they fall apart can be disastrous. These misconceptions are not limited to LLCs – they exist with other forms of business entities as well - but I am focusing on the LLC since the name holds

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such attraction for entrepreneurs starting new ventures. In all circumstances, however, you should rely on the advice of a legal professional to get the most precise information for your business, and the specifics listed here are meant only as guidelines.

The best way to illustrate shortcomings with the definition is with an example.

Imagine I walk away from my day job and decide to finally follow my passion by starting Dulaney Computer Service, LLC. Instead of going with a sole proprietorship for my one-man company, I opt to register with the Secretary of State as an LLC because I want the limited liability protection that will keep someone from going after my personal assets should a problem occur, and I want the business to be responsible for debts instead of me personally. Due to space constraints, we’ll limit the number of DCS’s limited liability cracks to two.

Crack #1: Piercing the Corporate Veil

The very first day of business is promising. Mike Corbett calls and hires DCS to upgrade all the existing Hamilton County Business Magazine PCs to Windows 7 and install faster network cards. With a spring in my step, I walk in with my toolbox which contains the only two tools anyone needs: a hammer and a cordless reciprocating saw. After the third PC refuses to boot following the upgrade, Mike begins yelling that I don’t know what I’m

February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

doing and I need to leave now. In order to keep the peace, I tell him that I won’t charge him for the rest of the day, but that fails to comfort him and he files a lawsuit against the company. I smile believing that the only restitution he will be able to receive, should he even win the lawsuit, will be limited to assets of DCS (thanks to limited liability) and there currently aren’t any assets there.

My feeling of protection is false. Since the company and I are one and the same, and the harms were caused by my lack of ability (“negligence” is what the courts would call it), the corporate veil can be pierced and I am personally liable for damages.

There are a number of situations where the veil can be pierced and they almost always involve some form of negligence: negligence in action, negligence in hiring, negligence in managing, etc.

A good overview of legal issues facing the entrepreneur can be found in Daniel Davidson and Lynn Forsythe’s The Entrepreneur’s Legal Companion (ISBN: 978-0-13-607723-7).

While not delving deep into any individual topics, it provides a good skeleton of subject matter to be cognizant of when forming the new venture.

Indianapolis based photographer Mark A. Lee has been capturing the best in people and events for over 20 years.

He takes great pride in working with his clients to ensure the end results fit their individual needs in a creative and interesting way.

Crack #2: Keeping Debts Limited to the Company

The second day of business, it occurs to me that in order to draw attention to DCS, I should put magnetic signs on a Bugatti Veyron and drive it around town. Prospective customers will see the expensive car, subconsciously think that DCS must know what they are doing to be that successful, and then my phone will ring off the hook. I walk into the local Bugatti dealer with dreams of separated business liabilities and personal liabilities (if the business goes under, that’s just too bad for the car loan) and tell them that DCS wants to buy the red one on the showroom floor.

The dealership informs me that they won’t sell me the vehicle without a personal guarantee on the loan and they pull out some paperwork I wasn’t expecting.

Photography for: Magazines Newspapers Fitness Family

Special Events Fundraisers Modeling and more

Great Exposures Mark A. Lee

1529 N. Park Ave. #1 Indianapolis, IN 46202 317.443.8337 www.GreatExposures.net

The personal guarantee exists because lenders are smart enough to know something about limited liability themselves.

Rather than worrying about going after the assets of a company that may fail, by making individuals guarantee the loan (collateralizing their own personal assets), the lenders have a direct path to collection if payments fall behind. While it can be argued that this isn’t really a crack in the limited liability protection – just a way around it – the truth of the matter is that it is the limited liability structure which prevents lenders from selling to those not willing to personally guarantee the debt and this effectively circumvents any protection.

There are a number of other cracks as well, such as officers being liable for tax debts even if the business fails, but we’re short on space. Just know that limited liability, while a wonderful concept, does have its limitations.

Emmett Dulaney teaches entrepreneurship and business at Anderson University.

Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2011

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Management

MICHELLE’S GOT IT COVERED

J. Michelle Sybesma

When to Say No to New Business

Also, Evaluating Potential Business Partners and Combating Technological Isolation MGIC: What’s the best way to turn away a referral that is not your ideal client makeup?

For that matter, is it really a good idea? ~Anthony L Gutwein Financial Advisor Edward Jones Anthony: It’s not easy to turn away business, yet sometimes it is necessary. The most important thing is to not base your decision solely on revenue. The biggest catch isn’t always the best client. The perfect client is one who understands and aligns well with your values and ethics.

People usually gravitate to other likeminded people. So, while a referral may be small, it may still be a good fit. Take the time to meet with them and discuss their needs. Explain the value-to-service ratio on which you based your standard service.

They may want more than you think or be happy with a smaller custom service offering. If not, guide them to a suitable alternative, explaining why the fit was not perfect for you. In the spirit of good quality customer service, take the time to follow up with them later and see how it went. These clients can later become best source of future referrals that align with both your values and your larger goals.

Beware of advice that suggests you turn away all small leads without consideration.

When a company or person only values the big-ticket prospect, their clients know it and move on when the relationship changes. Profit must be present to do business, but a business needs far more than fancy stationary to sustain a good reputation.

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MGIC: Can you share some best practices for evaluating new business opportunities? Other than profit expectations and personal considerations, what is important to keep in mind when analyzing new ventures? ~Matt Light Attorney/Consultant Matt: Matt, for someone in any other field I would recommend meeting first with an attorney, so you have a head start. In law school, you were taught to analyze everything and mitigate liability risk, so this should come naturally to you. Balance that training with some emotional instinct analysis. Look for familiar red flags based on past partnerships. Were there “pink” flags (not fully red) that you did not acknowledge? If so, rely on these instincts to evaluate future endeavors.

One more thing: be careful of referring to yourself as a consultant. There is a sea of contract employees who are mistakenly adopting the title of consultant (it is quickly rising to the top of the unemployed title of choice).You are an attorney and you have attained a specialty, so proudly display this title and your specialty in your correspondence. You have earned that right.

If you are considering contract work, try a profile tag line like “Available for Contract Work.” Many smaller companies are in need of General Council but cannot afford a full time staff person.

MGIC: I used to work at a firm of about 15 people.

In my new role, I am alone in the office. I do enjoy my work, but any recommendations for how to cope in an office where nearly all business interactions are remote? ~Teri Thomas Assistant to Derek Derek Daly Group Teri: There is no substitute for face-to-face human interaction. Even the many modes of communication we have as part of our everyday lives do not fully replace this need.

There is seldom one perfect choice of prospective business partners but rather many that fall within a range. It’s a critical decision that should be rooted primarily in trust, with profit and personal considerations secondary. To evaluate trust you must be as connected emotionally as you are logically. Rely on instinct as well as analysis. After all, how something is said is as important as what was said.

February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

First do a little self-evaluation: how introverted or extroverted are you? One is usually dominant. Dominant extroverts gain energy when others are present. They may be quiet people, but thrive on the presence of others.

Dominant introverts enjoy people too, but find being around people uses energy instead of replenishing it. If you are a “65% introvert/35% extrovert,” it means that 65% of the day you are fine alone. However, you need to find ways to fulfill the need for interaction.

Try to balance out your day. If you know your only form of professional interaction will be in the morning with your boss, try setting a late lunch with a friend that day.

Take a scheduled personal break and use a free video-camera meeting tool like Skype to connect with friends. Leverage your tools for web-based meetings as often as you can.

Stretch your legs and move about often. A wireless headset will help you talk with your hands the way you would face-to-face.

Most importantly, be cautious not to try to make this deficit up immediately after work all at once. It is not fair to try to make up all missed interactions at once with a single person. You will only both end up drained. Place an emphasis on quality time when you have the opportunities. Do not rush through and miss them.

J. Michelle Sybesma is a business consultant

with Professional Skills Consulting, specializing in maximizing business success. Send your questions of any business type to info@skillsconsulting.com

Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2011

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Cover Story

Carmel City Center: A Vision Comes to Life

By Shari Held Photos by Mark Lee

I

t’s been a long time in the making, but with Phase I completed, the master-planned Carmel City Center is beginning to live up to its promise. The beautifully detailed Georgian-style architecture creates a cohesive backdrop for the City Center, which blends convenience (specialty shops, restaurants, services and underground parking) with culture and arts venues (concert hall and

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theatre), luxury residences, a variety of businesses and public spaces for relaxing and gathering. Together they create an inviting, energetic urban ambience and an experience that rivals that of much larger cities worldwide.

Partnering for success

It took many people to make the vision materialize. From the beginning it was clear the City of Carmel would need to be involved to help the project clear hurdles such as zoning issues and financing. “Public/private partnerships allow the private and governmental sectors to work to-

February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

gether to overcome the inherent difficulties of redevelopment in older areas,” says Carmel Mayor James Brainard.

“Carmel is able, through the Carmel Redevelopment Commission (CRC), to purchase and aggregate land and provide incentives to put redevelopment on a level playing field financially with new green field development.”

In 2004, when the organization approved a public/private partnership (PPP) with locally owned Pedcor Cos., the vision began to take shape.

Pedcor was selected for its expertise in mixed-use development, its appreciation of beautiful architecture and its understanding of the intangibles (pride and a sense of ownership) the project needed to instill in Carmel residents. “Pedcor understood our commitment to building a beautiful and pedestrian-friendly

than 100 apartments and condo/penthouses. The Palladium, the 1600-seat concert hall in the Center for the Performing Arts, opened in January.

downtown that would rival the best urban spaces in the world,” Brainard says. “They understood that for Carmel to compete in the next century for the best employers and the best jobs that we needed to work together with the private sector to create a downtown that is unparalleled.”

Bruce Cordingley, president and CEO of Pedcor Cos., says Pedcor and the City determined what their roles would be before finalizing the partnership: Pedcor is the developer and builder and manages the leasing, while Carmel is responsible for the public spaces, drainage, sidewalks and other public infrastructures. When it comes to finances, Pedcor will contribute $200M and Carmel, $100M to the project.

…a project and vision of this scope and size takes time, and we needed private sector partners that were focused on long-term value, not just the next quarter’s profit-and-loss statement.

- Mayor Jim Brainard

Forging ahead

Creating a new Carmel downtown had been on Mayor Brainard’s radar screen since 1995 when he was campaigning for mayor. “I really began to believe City Center would be a reality when we broke ground and I saw the steel rising up from the ground,” he says.

That was in March 2006. Today Phase I, located at the corner of Rangeline Road and City Center Drive, includes 62,000 square feet of boutique retail and restaurant space, 48,000 square feet of office space and more

That’s pretty incredible considering the timing for the project wasn’t stellar. The sluggish economy made many retailers and businesses reluctant to enter into new business ventures. The economy wasn’t the only obstacle.

“The biggest challenge is that a project and vision of this scope and size takes time, and we needed to not only commit to several terms of office but find private sector partners that were focused on longterm value, not just the next quarter’s profit-and-loss statement,” Brainard says.

“We also had to be prepared to weather the storms of negative public sentiment that would arise during a project of this scope, length and size. It has taken, and continues to take, a dedicated effort to explain to some why this sort of investment will be good for our current taxpayers and also their children and grandchildren.”

One of those people is Mike Drewry, managing partner for Drewry Simmons Vornehm LLP, a law firm specializing in construction services. Drewry Simmons occupies the second and third floors of the Hopper Building, a stand-alone building that gives them an identifiable presence.

Pedcor’s development strategy was to determine the type of retail that would complement the project’s location and demographics and aggressively pursue it. “We visited Chicago, Louisville, Cincinnati, Columbus, St. Louis and several other cities to find the best-of-the-best businesses interested in coming to a market offering a worldclass music hall and . . . a city environment conducive to growing their business,” says Melissa Averitt, vice president and director marketing and sales for Pedcor Cos. Ultimately the focus was on boutique and specialty retailers and restaurateurs, to meet the needs of the City Center’s typical customer: a person who values service, quality and specialty retail.

Driving occupancy

The Center for the Performing Arts will make the City Center a regional draw, but it will also be a gathering place for the people who live and work in the area.

Hamilton County Business Magazine/December 2010 • January 2011

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Drewry found the idea of moving to the City Center compelling for numerous reasons: many firm employees lived nearby, the incredible cultural amenities, the shopping and restaurants, underground parking and the City Center’s ability to attract businesses that could potentially become clients. But fundamentally it was the idea of being part of a brand new downtown with the variety of structures and the blend of construction types that the City Center offers that Drewry found most compelling.

“That’s our wheelhouse of what we do as a law firm,” Drewry says. “We wanted to be right in the middle of where that was happening. From a business perspective, we were able to get the space we needed in a much more efficient layout in a new stateof-the-art building.” Another important consideration was that the firm’s new home incorporate green building principles. “We looked at a lot of space options both in Indianapolis and in the Carmel Corridor,

Creating Successful Public/Private Partnerships According to Mike Higbee, managing director of Strategic Capital Partners’ Urban Development Group, the public/private partnership (PPP) was a concept that was pioneered by Indianapolis in the ‘70s and ‘80s.

“A lot of folks have turned to Indianapolis, and now Carmel, as leading the way on showing how to put those partnerships together and get things done,” Higbee says.

1. Prepare properly for a PPP. Do your due diligence.

What’s in it for the public sector? What’s in it for the private sector? There’s got to be mutual gain.

A member of the Urban Land Institute’s Public/Private Partnership Council, Higbee participated in a national committee on best practices for PPPs in Washington, D.C., chaired by former Indianapolis Mayor Bill Hudnut.

The meeting resulted in the Urban Land Institute’s publication, The 10 Principles for Successful Public/Private Partnerships. Here are the main points of that report.

4. Identify the risks and rewards involved. “If you are in a true partnership, that information gets put on the table,” Higbee says. “You make sure both parties are protected and also get to enjoy some success when the project’s realized.”

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2. Create a shared vision that is driving both or all parties.

3. Understand your partners and the key players.

Are they trustworthy? Do they have good reputations? Can they deliver what is required of them?

February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

but there wasn’t anything that gave us the opportunity to move into a facility that had as many sustainable features as we were able to blend in with the Hopper Building,” he adds.

Other tenants include NTS Carmel Center Apartments, Townhomes at City Center, The Residences at CCC, Shapiro’s Deli, Pedcor Corporate Headquarters, Flagstar Bank, Hoosier Realty Building, Salon 01, The Palladium and Software Engineering Professionals. The Addendum, a home décor and gift shop, is scheduled to open in late spring and the Civic Theatre will take residency in summer 2011.

Plans for a boutique hotel with 160-plus rooms are still on the drawing board. “We are constantly working on how the hotel concept can come together,” Averitt says.

“We are talking with other hotel developers and waiting for credit markets to open back up to revisit how and what the hotel will be like.”

5. Establish a clear and rational decision-making process. Who’s making what decisions and how do they get made? How do you ensure everyone has an appropriate amount of influence on the final outcomes?

6. Make sure all parties do their homework and understands what is being asked of them. Are they in it for the long haul?

7. Secure consistent and coordinated leadership.

8. Communicate early and often. Decisions have to be made quickly and the communication line back and forth is very important.

9. Negotiate a fair deal structure.

10. Build trust as core value.

Averitt says Phase II will encompass either the area to the south of Phase 1—between the new construction and Flagstar Bank— or the area further west which is earmarked for the hotel. Several large buildings were included in the initial plan, but the plan is still fluid. “Everything is still conceptual and contingent upon credit markets and tenant demand,” Averitt says.

Demand has been encouraging. “We currently have over 70 percent of the project in lease negotiations with several deals done,”

Cordingley says. “It’s hard to say what will be here in a year, but future phases are being discussed and designed as we work with lenders to structure financing.”

For Mayor Brainard it’s been worth the wait. “It is especially rewarding to see a project near completion that the community has long awaited and so many have helped develop,” he says. “I think we can all be proud that we have created a landmark structure that will inspire generations to come surrounded by a unique and beautiful new downtown for Carmel.” v

Cindy White, Retail Market Leader | Jonathan Hunt, Fishers Banking Center Manager Ryan Mooney, Carmel Banking Center Manager | Tom Dooley, Westfield Banking Center Manager Lindsay Sweet, Noblesville Banking Center Manager

An Indiana Bank Helping Indiana Customers.

Committed to our Communities At First Merchants, we’re committed to supporting economic recovery in our communities. Because we are a strong and stable company guided by sound financial practices, we’re living up to that commitment. Since 1893, we have been proudly serving families, businesses and our communities. You’ll find that our team of experienced financial professionals are talented advisors who are empowered to make decisions and deliver responsive, customized solutions that meet your needs. We invite you to experience the First Merchants difference today.

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Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2011

15

2010 in Review Progress

The new Keystone Parkway

By Rosalyn Demaree here’s no denying that 2010 was a hard year for business.

City and town leaders say there were high points, however, that helped make the low points a little less uncomfortable. Local governments met some success trolling for new business. Road and other infrastructure projects were completed, paving the way – sometimes literally – for progress and an uptick in business.

An On-The-Job training grant from the state helped at least 20 Hamilton County businesses hire 154 workers who had lost their jobs due to layoffs and downsizing, said Tom Hellmich of the Hamilton County Alliance.

16

“The program pays half of the new employee’s wage (up to $13,000) while he or she is being trained on the job for the first six months,” he added. In total, the businesses received more than $850,000.

While many of the employers in the program hired in the single digits, Gaylor Electric hired and trained 15 new workers, Community Home Health Services, 13, and Allied Solutions, 12.

Job fair highlights Noblesville efforts

“One of our jobs in economic development is to help people,” said Noblesville Mayor John Ditslear, explaining why the city organized a first-time job fair in November.

February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

Job-seekers from 21 counties attended, with more than half being Hamilton County residents. “Everybody knows someone who’s laid off or doesn’t have a job.”

The one caveat for businesses wanting to participate in the fair was that they had to be hiring at least one position. “This wasn’t just an exchange of business cards and advice to check websites,” said Ditslear. At least one of the 60 companies represented hired someone on the spot, and several hired in the weeks following the fair.

The city’s façade grant program continued to help downtown businesses upgrade their storefronts -- eight grants totaling $95,000 were awarded in 2010 – and large

three years. Huff said it had saved $1.2 million by its first anniversary.

The first phase of work on 126th Street was completed in 2010, as was the wastewater facility upgrade, increasing the plant’s capacity and preparing the town for additional development.

Uptown Café received a grant to improve its façade.

commercial interests made commitments in other parts of the city. Performance Marketing is building a 74,000-squarefoot building in corporate campus that will consolidate operations it has in Carmel and Fishers. Aspire, which assists people at risk of mental health problems, substance abuse and HIV, created 13 administrative jobs in the Noblesville Business Park on 148th Street.

Tourism helps fuel the county’s economy.

In Fishers, the opening of Cyntheanne Park attracted high numbers of visitors during recreational sports tournaments.

The Softball World Series will play there this summer, and Huff expects that event to be a big boom for local business, as outof-town families flock to restaurants, hotels and shops.

Sports are ‘Westfield industry’

Sports tourism also is an economic driver in Westfield, which is developing fields on 300 acres in a targeted economic development area that is projected to make the city the Family Sports Capital of America.

police officers and three firefighters – and more will be hired as the community adds fire stations. The city’s third fire station was built in 2010 on Grassy Branch Road, and Cook said a fourth is needed. Twelve open firefighter positions at the end of the year attracted 260 applicants.

Keystone opens Carmel to business

Construction of Keystone Parkway sometimes confounded drivers in Carmel, but its benefits were quick to surface when work was completed, said Mayor Jim Brainard.

He’s been told that traffic resumed preconstruction levels, and regular commuters were quick to boast on Twitter how little time they needed to criss-cross the city. Brainard also has been told that workers along 96th Street are finding the easier drive to downtown Carmel an invitation for venturing there for lunch and shopping.

Fishers implements efficiencies

Reducing costs to businesses and citizens was a focus for Fishers leaders last year, according to Town Manager Gary Huff.

“About everything we do has some impact on business.”

Using employee-generated ideas, the town reorganized departments to be more efficient, he explained. Fishers reduced costs by about $500,000 in snow removal alone.

When the town created a medical clinic for employees in April 2009, it anticipated saving $1.3 million in health costs over

Westfield installed new curbs and trails along Union St.

“This is Westfield industry,” Mayor Andy Cook said of softball and baseball diamonds and soccer, lacrosse, rugby and football fields. “This is not a playground.

It’s meant to bring people to town.”

The Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts opened in January, 2011.

The project is proceeding quickly, with a fund-raising campaign to be unveiled this winter, he said. City leaders hope construction starts in late summer.

Downtown business is booming, he said.

The Indiana Design Center was almost fully leased as 2010 closed, and apartment leasing at City Center took off quickly by year’s end, a quarter of the building had been leased. The Palladium opened for tuning concerts by local performers in late fall, and even those were putting the cha-ching in cash registers at neighboring eateries.

While many Indiana cities laid off employees last year, Westfield was hiring three

“This is an early indication of what (the Center for Performing Arts) can provide to

Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2011

17

business,” maintained Brainard, a chief proponent of the center. “The economic development benefits are going to be huge.”

Road improvements and development in other parts of the city aided the business climate, as well. The completion of work on 131st Street and on streets in the Village of WestClay made it easier for drivers to get to shops. The Indiana Spine Group’s building under construction since late summer on U.S. 31 includes space where renowned Dr. Rick Sasso will hold classes that, according to Brainard, are expected to attract physicians from around the nation.

Small towns find achievement

Leaders of the small towns in northern Hamilton County cite positive development and achievement in 2010, too.

mid-year. Alice O’Brian, a Carmel-based caterer for 11 years, opened Alice’s Restaurant on New Year’s Eve. O’Brian and the building’s owner renovated the 100year-old building, most recently a grocery, from stem to stern.

“You’d never recognize the inside if you’d ever been in the market,” said Cook. “This is something we’ve needed in town for a long time” to attract people to the business district.

Connie Pearson, last year’s Sheridan Town Council president, sees business successes all along Main Street, where nearly all of the storefronts are filled. A Sheridan business cornerstone, JBS United, converted the Carnegie library building into office space and agricultural laboratory.

AN

AWARD

WINNING

A face-lift in Arcadia’s downtown was a noticeable change for business. Wide brick and concrete sidewalks, decorative street lights, the renovation of Town Hall, and a freshly paved Main Street raised community pride. Property owners neighboring the business district were seen making their own improvements throughout the summer and fall.

CITY

Construction on Midwest ISO near the water tower

Midwest ISO selected Sheridan for a $35 million project in the industrial park. The facility will mirror one in Carmel, where the company manages electrical grids in 13 states. The project cost includes a $10 million investment in land and infrastructure.

Alice’s Restaurant, Arcadia

The Arcadia Arts Initiative continued to expand unique offerings in the town, said Bill Cook, 2010 town council president.

A dance studio and art gallery opened in

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The recession was responsible for a few Cicero businesses closing, said Kay Hartley, last year’s town council president, but a couple of new ones opened and the town’s grocery store reopened.

In that community, the Economic Development Commission is aggressively pursuing its goal of attracting an optometrist, a law firm and a dry cleaners, she added. v

February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

CONTACT

Judi Johnson, Assistant Economic Development Director City of Noblesville 317-776-6345 jjohnson@noblesville.in.us PROPERTY/DEMOGRAPHICS SEARCH ENGINE: noblesvilleprospector.com

Legal Scott Treadway

Understanding Indiana’s Workers Compensation Insurance You can save money by paying attention to the details In Indiana you can’t sue your employer if you are injured on the job. Instead, every employer is required by law to have workers compensation insurance to protect you. In exchange for purchasing insurance, employers are protected from lawsuits for damages by their employees. Knowing some basics about the system will help ensure you have the right coverage for your business.

Cracking the Code

Insurance premiums vary widely between insurance carriers and are based on the risk associated with a given employer’s business.

For example, if you are engaged in the construction business you would have a much higher risk classification than an employer with only clerical or administrative employees. Employers are assigned a numerical rating which reflects the likelihood of injuries to their employees. This rating is known as a classification code (“Class Code”) and is used to calculate the employer’s premium.

Certain high risk Class Codes can result in significantly higher insurance premiums.

If your employees aren’t properly classified, your insurance premiums could be much higher than they should be, or employees may not be properly covered.

There are literally hundreds of different Class Codes and employers can have multiple codes. Each different class of employees within a company will have a different Class Code and each Code will affect the insurance premiums paid by an employer. It

is critical that employees are properly classified. Otherwise, an employer’s insurance premiums could be much higher than they should be, or employees may not be properly covered.

You can challenge or appeal the classification of your employees through the Indiana Compensation Rating Bureau. Insurance carriers that write worker compensation insurance are required by law to be members. The Dispute Resolution Committee (“DRC”) is an appellate body comprised of both insurance carriers and Indiana employers. The DRC has the authority overrule the carrier if it has made an error in the application of the applicable rules. A further appeal can then be taken to the Indiana Department of Insurance. Your insurance agent can assist you with understanding these rules. A successful challenge can result in substantially reduced annual premium.

Your Safety Record Counts

Another factor affecting the premium calculation is an employer’s experience modification rating (“EMR”). This rating reflects the number and severity of employee related accidents within a company or business.

As employees make workers compensation claims, there will be a corresponding increase in the employers’ EMR. Thus, a wise employer will implement safety and training programs to minimize workers compensation claims. An EMR is based on a rolling three year average; once an employer has a negative claims history, that history will significantly affect premium calculations for several years.

Some employers are so high risk, or have such a poor history, they are unable to pur-

chase workers compensation insurance in the voluntary market. However, Indiana law still mandates they carry insurance. In this case, the employer can elect to participate in a high risk insurance pool commonly known as the residual market. While this insurance provides the same level of coverage, it is very costly. The standard premium is increased by a 25% surcharge to cover the cost of the pool.

So it pays to take steps to keep your employees safe.

Here are some steps you can take to keep your premiums as low as possible: • Provide safety training for your employees • Use employee safety manuals • Ensure your workplace complies with all federal and state OSHA regulations • Adopt best practices for certain high risk job behaviors such as heavy lifting or handling dangerous chemicals • Work with your insurance carrier to evaluate and modify your procedures.

Many carriers have staff with substantial workplace safety expertise and training • Ensure your employees receive prompt and appropriate treatment after a workplace-related injury If there is any question about whether an employee has experienced a workplace injury, consult your carrier and your legal counsel.

You may find that the employee does not have a compensable claim. In such case you do not want the expenses associated with that injury counting against your experience and affecting your premiums.

Scott Treadway is a Carmel attorney practicing throughout Indiana.

Reach him at scott@estlawllc.com

Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2011

19

Marketing Susan Young

Build a Marketing Strategy in 2011

Here’s how to get started

While the economy is improving, budgets are tighter, which means we must maximize every dollar we spend on marketing and growing our business. How can we know where to best allocate our marketing budget in 2011? The answer lies in a well-thought marketing strategy.

The Business and Marketing Plan

Most people consider marketing a small component of their business plans, but it ought to be a major component of your strategic business and operational plans. It should be an action plan that helps guide your initial start-up, and sustains your business long-term. It should guide all of your marketing activities for the upcoming month, year, or longer.

Even if you have been in business for awhile, it is important to review and update your marketing plan annually. The process itself takes only a few weeks, and the upfront investment will pay off. If you have a guide to organize your marketing initiatives, you will be less likely to steer off-course by going overbudget, or making a hasty decision that does not align with your business goals.

The Basics

The elements of a marketing plan include industry and company background information, but go beyond this to include competitive information and detailed marketing tactics, complete with costs outlined. Here’s a basic outline of a marketing plan: u Description of your Business and Industry u Description of your Products/Services and Pricing u Target Audience • Segmentation: Primary and Secondary • Demographics (females, boomers, Indianapolis metro, homeowner)

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• Psychographics (enjoy shopping and

shop at home TV, gardening, decorating, dining out, travel, etc.)

• SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) • Competitive Analysis • Primary and secondary • Unique differentiators of competitors • Product/service offering • Location served • Market share • Pricing • Known advertising and marketing messages u Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP) – your “niche” that gives you an edge over the competition u Your Business Focus and Positioning (for pricing, product, communications, sales) u List of Proposed Marketing/ Advertising /Activities (the Marketing Mix - the best place to advertise based on your target audience and industry) • Outline of details and the costs associated with each marketing activity • Costs of the media buys, creative (having someone create the ad) and printing and mailing costs, if applicable • Percentage of budget spent on each advertising vehicle/method • Marketing calendar to outline your activities over the course of the month/year • How you’ll track and evaluate results of your marketing efforts u Sales/Marketing Goals • Projections and revenue goals for the month/year and beyond • This will help determine your marketing budget

February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

• May have to adjust budget accordingly to meet goals

u Marketing Budget

• Work backward from your estimated

sales/revenue goal • Example: _________ rev/year = x sales/mo = x proposals = x sales calls = x leads = x impressions. To get x impressions we need to spend x $ per month.

• Divide your marketing budget into segments: media buys, marketing supplies, trade show booth, printing/ mailing costs, creative, consulting u Marketing Calendar • Outline of activities for each month • Try to integrate multiple tactics (PR, Web, eMail, Direct Mail, Advertising, Tradeshows, etc.)

• Use calendar to keep track of upcoming deadlines

Use it!

Your marketing plan is an evolving document, so take the time to review it throughout the month to ensure that you are meeting your goals. If you need to evaluate a new marketing opportunity, you can now refer to your completed strategy to guide your decision-making. Re-evaluate your marketing plan at least quarterly and update it at least annually, or when something major changes in your situation or the marketplace.

When you work from a plan, rather than from a shotgun approach, you will be more likely to succeed in your marketing efforts, and ensure that you do not waste those precious marketing dollars.

Susan Young is founder and president of AimFire Marketing, specializing in digital content, public relations and Internet marketing. More at www.aimfiremarketing.com.

Management Robby Slaughter

Watch for Potholes on The Road to Recovery Stay vigilant to enjoy the next economic expansion

The Bureau of Labor Statistics recently reported some startling news. Among all of the large counties in Indiana, the most significant decline in employment occurred here in Hamilton County. A stunning 3.5% of the population lost their jobs over the course of the twelve month period; higher than any other major populated region in the state and much larger than the national average of 2.1%.

At the same time, however, Hamilton ranked 20th out of all large counties in the entire United States on wage growth. From Q1 2009 to Q2 2010 average incomes ticked up 2.9%. These two facts combine to produce a curious result: fewer people

to become less pronounced. There will be more jobs available elsewhere, which will decrease the labor pool and reduce the local unemployment rate. People who stay in Hamilton County and keep their current positions will suddenly be able to breathe.

They won’t be nearly as concerned about joining the ranks of the jobless. The coming end of the recession, therefore, may be connected to a drop in productivity and innovation. A loss of employee engagement is one of the most likely and most negative potential side effects of the anticipated economic recovery.

If you are working today, now is the time to redouble your efforts to work smarter. Attend

resume and your interviewing skills to emphasize your creativity and productivity. Expand your online networking presence to demonstrate your participation in the 21st century. Keep apprised of the latest announcements in your field as well as relevant local events. When job growth comes, you want to be sprinting ahead of those exhausted from the marathon.

Hamilton County made national news many times over the past decade. Forbes. com identified the region as the best place to raise a family. The Digital Counties Survey has included Hamilton in their top 10 list for the past eight years. County Health Rankings announced Hamilton as the

A loss of employee engagement is one of the most likely and most negative potential side effects of the anticipated economic recovery. are working, but the employed are making more than they did before.

You might assume that in a tough economy, high unemployment would lead to more competition for jobs, thus decreasing salaries. In Hamilton County the opposite seems to be happening. Perhaps those who have managed to stay employed are becoming more engaged and more productive, thus increasing their value, their wages and their overall job security.

Almost everyone is predicting significant economic recovery in 2011, which puts both workers and job-seekers in Hamilton County in a unique position. The current lead in wages and growth will likely start

training courses to improve your technical and practical skills. Meet with colleagues to review or redesign core business processes. Adjust your budget to consider system upgrades, consulting services and new hires. Focus on continued innovation, improvement and leadership.

If you are currently seeking work, prepare yourself for a surge of opportunities with high expectations. Polish your

healthiest county in the state last year. Let’s maintain the tradition of accolades and innovation. Help make Hamilton County a place where everyone wants to live, work and play.

Robby Slaughter is a Principal with Slaughter Development, an Indianapolis-based productivity and workflow consulting company.

His new book, Failure: The Secret to Success, is available now at www.failurethebook.com.

Next Edition:

Health/Wellness Advertising Deadline: February 26

For advertising info: 774-7747 mcorbett@hamiltoncountybusiness.com

Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2011

21

By Mike Corbett

F

Judy Levine: The warmth andfriendliness of everyone was beyond my expectation. I have never witnessed a fireworks display of the magnitude and duration presented.

ishers and Binjiang, China have agreed to become sister cities. This is Fishers’ second sister, having connected with Billericay, England more than ten years ago.

Binjiang District is a suburb of Hangzhou, a city of 8 million in Eastern China.

It has an excellent education system and a technology centric economy.

The Fishers delegation included Town Council member Art Levine, Hamilton County Councilor Judy Levine, Mark Kosiarek of Vai Technology, and Corby Thompson of K.E. Thompson Inc. The signing ceremony coincided with the 4th annual Hangzhou International Mayors conference, and was attended by over 35 mayors and representatives from around the world.

We caught up with the travelers upon their return. Excerpts: Hamilton County Business Magazine: What inspired you to go on this trip?

Judy Levine: I wanted to stand by my husband as he represented Fishers at this impressive gathering of officials from around the world. I was so proud of him.

Kosiarek: My business has ties to China already, and has had for several years. This of-

22

Corby Thompson, Art and Judy Levine, and Mark Kosiarek attend a tree planting ceremony in the West Lake area of Hangzhou, widely considered to be the most beautiful part of China.

fered an additional reason to travel to the area for new business and further networking.

Thompson: There is a great deal of foreign investment in Indiana. Fishers and Hamilton County in general need to be in engaged in these opportunities.The Chinese Consulate in Washington DC actually reached out to us. China will be a major player economically and politically for the foreseeable future and the establishment of a relationship is the first step in finding common ground for our mutual benefit.

HCBM: What impressed you most about Binjiang?

Art Levine: Binjiang District is a very modern, prosperous Western style community.

A large internet company is headquartered there. Also, its leaders were very warm and friendly.

February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

Kosiarek: I was most impressed by our visit to Alibaba.com. Alibaba is the largest tech company in Binjiang, employing 5000 very energetic young people. It is the Ebay of China, and is growing very quickly. We were given a tour of the company, and it could have easily been like were visiting Google in Silicon Valley” Thompson: The Binjiang District is impressive for its beautiful and modern architecture. The investment that the Chinese government has made in this area is mind-boggling. It is in essence a “spec-city”. I was most impressed with the young people that we met. Theirs is the first generation since Mao that has unlimited opportunity. They seem to be very aware of this and are excited with the possibilities. The ones that I met desire to come to the United States for graduate school and then return to China to continue to apply capitalism to their exploding economy.

HCBM: How do you think Fishers will benefit from the relationship?

Welcome thousands of Hamilton County visitors to your business The annual Welcome to Hamilton County Visitors Guide is distributed to hotels, visitors centers, and dozens of other locations all year long.

Art Levine: Aside from the economic and cultural exchanges we hope result, we truly believe anyone considering Fishers for home or a business will be impressed that Fishers reaches out to the world to make it a better place to live.

Judy Levine: China is looking for economic development partners. Fishers will benefit from opportunities in culture and business and technology.

Kosiarek: International relationships can go a long way in helping Fishers attract

new companies and the associated jobs to our Town.

Thompson: The benefit of this relationship for Fishers is yet to be determined.

Certainly there are cultural and historical lessons to be learned. It seemed that our hosts were more interested in potential economic relationships. Some of the other sister cities that we met while in China have established home grown corporate centers specifically related to China. As China expands their influence, specific benefits will be identified I am certain. v

Ad sales are underway for Spring publication.

Call 317•774•7747

or email for more info: mcorbett@hamiltoncountybusiness.com

In 1875 the building now known as The Model Mill was erected.

After more than 125 years service this space still thrives in the heart of downtown Noblesville.

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Three preferred caterers to suit any taste or budget. Let them create a menu to perfectly complement your event.

Original architecture adds character and charm to this late 1800’s building.

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Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2011

23

Profile

G

reg Knipe first learned to weld so that he could work on his motorcycles. He quickly discovered that this type of welding required precise math skills. Still, the welding itself was pretty interesting.

blades and corner brackets on wooden crates have in common? They all gain a new life and look through Greg Knipe’s welding wand.

“My wife Dawn enrolled me in a class taught by Julie Ball at the Indianapolis Art Center,” Knipe said. “At the start of class Ball told us we’d make art by lunch time.”

In the first three hours of the daylong class Knipe was hooked.

“At one point a truck driving neighbor brought me a rear differential cover from a 1960’s Kenworth,” Knipe said. “He’d uncovered it in the back of a truck repair shop. I made it into a 75 pound turtle.” The repair shop let Knipe have any of their other unused parts for the price of hauling it away himself.

His final project was a five foot tall flamingo made of steel rods. New steel is very expensive and Knipe realized that if he wanted to keep welding he’d need to find a way to become selfsustaining. He began salvaging metal, and his business, Salvaged Beauty Studio, was born.

Knipe’s sense of wonder and whimsy turns these items into playful yard ornaments, wall hangings and custom pieces such as drawer pulls made from a grandfather’s mechanics wrenches. Knipe has made pieces from tools he personally broke, including tines from a grass rake, a polishing wheel and grinding brush. Salvage pieces become anything from a yard moose to caterpillars, lady bugs, scorpions, giant grass hoppers, snails, turtles and beetles.

Found art

Auctions are a great source of materials for Knipe’s whimsical pieces. He has been known to purchase box lots without knowing what’s inside. They often contain old broken tools. His reputation has grown and Carmel neighbors leave found or broken items at the end of his driveway.

What do broken tools such as shovels, jacks used for changing car tires, the handles to outdoor water faucets, worn out saw

“I was contacted by Indy Fringe,” Knipe explained. “Their headquarters are in an old building that had former lives as a church, repair shop and antique store. There was 100 years of junk inside. They told me I

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February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

could salvage what I wanted with the condition that I put it in Indy Fringe.”

Following his dreams

Growing a business based on scrap metal sculpture has been an intriguing process for Knipe. It has caused him to think deeply about everything from pricing his pieces to using as environmentally friendly welding practices as possible. Whenever he can he buys his small tools

ment. “Without her I wouldn’t have gotten this far,” Knipe said. “She’s a great marketer with strategies for sales. She’s also my voice of reason.”

Are You a Business Professional At The Top Of Your Game?

Knipe began with a business goal of breaking even his first year – he exceeded that goal and made a little money. He has continued to grow the business over the past three years selling products online and at area art fairs during the summer. Salvaged Beauty Studio will be his full-time employment by 2012. v

used, he captures his own off-cuts and grindings and gives them to other salvagers and he filters the exhaust from his backyard studio.

Dawn provides support for everything from production to office and web manage-

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Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2011

25

The Pitch-In Notes from all over the county…

Conner Prairie will open “1863 Civil War Journey: Raid on Indiana” this summer. The $4.3 million exhibit uses technology to enhance guests’ immersive experience. They of volunteers defending Indiana from Rebel raiders during the Civil War.

All 15 Monroe Banks, including the one in Noblesville, will become Old National Banks in May as a result of a merger. Monroe was based in Bloomington. Old National Bancorp, founded in 1834 in Evansville, is the largest financial services holding company headquartered in Indiana.

Community Health Network has opened

a new MedCheck in Noblesville’s Hamilton Healthcare Campus. It’s the first walk-in care center in the nation to offer a smartphone app for scheduling appointments.

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Stonegate Mortgage Corporation plans to expand its Fishers headquarters, creating up to 300 new jobs by 2015. Currently located on Allisonville Road and employing 88, Stonegate will move to an entire floor of the new Concourse at Crosspointe by Summer. In the past three years the company has originated more than $1.6 billion in residential mortgages.

A Turkey Hill Minit Market is planned for former Pizza Hut lot on the northeast corner of Rangeline Road and Carmel Drive in Carmel. It’s a gas station and convenience store with office space on the second floor.

KAR Auction Services plans to expand its Carmel headquarters, creating up to 249 jobs by 2015. The company currently employs more than 500 in Carmel, and will expand its existing facility on Hamilton Crossing Blvd.

KAR is the holding company for Adesa Inc., Insurance Auto Auctions Inc., and Automotive Finance Corp.

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Andrew A. Manna a partner.

A former sixth grade school teacher, Manna primarily represents Indiana public school corporations and is a frequent speaker on education policy.

Lapel Family Dentistry has merged with Pendleton Family Dentistry. Dr. Michael Bettner, owner of Lapel Family Dentistry also owns Bettner Dentistry in Noblesville and will move his Lapel practice to Pendleton.

Anderson University and Ball State University are collaborating to offer a four-year Masters

of Computer Science degree. Under the program, a student can earn a bachelor’s degree in Information Systems from AU in three years and a Master’s in Information and Communication Sciences at Ball State in 11 months. Traditional Masters of Computer Science Degrees take 6 years.

February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

Joe’s Auto Service in Carmel is opening a Noblesville facility called Premier Auto Service Centers. The new building on the corner of 146th and Herriman Blvd. will feature six work bays and will offer full service auto repair. It’s scheduled to open by summer.

Fishers’ Studio Nineteen won third place in the self-promotion category of the American Design Award competition.

The promotional brochure competed against 1640 entries, of which just 55 were finalists in various categories.

Two more tenants have been signed to the Indiana Design Center. Santarossa Mosaic and Tile is Indiana’s premier natural stone and hard surfaces provider and is headquartered in Indianapolis. Holder Mattress features mattresses and box springs manufactured in their Kokomo factory. Both will have first floor showrooms.

Indiana Members Credit Union CEO

Ron Collier is celebrating 25 years with the company.

Collier joined the credit union in 1985 as Training Director and became CEO in 2003. The Ball State grad was a teacher and coach at Noblesville High before joining IMCU.

Hamilton County Express Employment Professionals office moved to a new, larger office at 7259 Fishers Landing Drive, Fishers.

Business more than doubled in the past year.

Confessions of a Sushi Newbie

Dining Out

Misconceptions Shattered at Hamilton County Eateries

Story and photos by Scott Tyree ushi is a mysterious dish originating in the Far East, enjoyed by those with a different palate than the average American. It is dangerous considering it is raw fish that has traveled a great distance to Indiana. It costs a fortune to actually get a filling sushi meal and who wants to fill up on bland rice and seaweed anyway? I am embarrassed to admit that I have carried these misguided beliefs about sushi my entire life. After driving past a variety of local sushi joints year after year, I decided it was time to figure out why these places stay busy day after day.

My first experience came at Maneki Neko in Westfield just east of Downtown on Highway 32.

Owner Song Frazee and her Sushi Chef “Jimmy Crazy” have been working together since the store opened 10 years ago. Jimmy has more than 25 years’ experience as a Sushi Chef, and Song’s combination of friendliness and sushi knowledge make Maneki Neko the perfect spot for a first timer. A native of Seoul, Korea, Song answers all of my questions and explains that their seafood arrives the next day when they place an order.

That is fresh enough for me and preferable to the

sushi in Korea she describes that moves around on your plate. The Indy 500 roll is Song’s favorite and one of their best sellers, so I decide to go with that. It is an eel roll covered with slices of salmon, shrimp and avocado. I also try a standard shrimp tempura roll and the vegetable spring roll which resembles a sushi ice cream cone.

After mixing some wasabi into my soy sauce dish I am ready to begin. After struggling with the chopsticks for a while, Song rescues me from further embarrassment with a homemade device resembling forceps made of a chopstick, a rubber band and a small rolled-up piece of paper. Now able to function at a very basic level, I dip a roll in the soy sauce/wasabi combination and experience an explosion of flavor as it enters my mouth.

I am embarrassed to admit that I have carried these misguided beliefs about sushi my entire life…

The rice has soaked up the soy sauce like a sponge and the salmon and eel have a fresh, clean flavor, not the fishy taste I was expecting. The shrimp tempura roll doesn’t disappoint either. It is simply a tempura fried shrimp and asparagus surrounded by rice.You can certainly pick out the fried shrimp flavor but the combination of ingredients and soy sauce pretty much make it the best dish involving fried shrimp I have everhad. One visit to Maneki Neko has shattered my misconceptions and I am ready for my next experience.

Sushi Chef “Jimmy Crazy” My next stop is iSushi in Carmel on 116th Street, about 1 mile west of Rangeline. iSushi has an upscale sushi bar feel with its clean, modern decor.

Owner Chang Lee is bashful about the good reviews he has received but answers all of my questions with an obvious expertise. The Crunchy Tuna Roll is their most popular item, so I place an order. The tuna and rice are rolled in seaweed, tempura fried and covered in wasabi flavored fish eggs, spicy mayo and eel sauce. In addition to being delicious, it is more than enough to fill me up. While I dine, Chang explains the usual progression of a sushi lover. One usually begins with cooked rolls containing ingredients that are familiar and slowly becomes more adventurous, finally settling on Sashimi, thinly sliced raw seafood served with a dipping sauce. Chang’s favorite is Sea Urchin Sashimi. I am not sure how long it will take me to advance to raw Sea Urchin, but I am certainly on my way.

Are you ready to put aside your misconceptions about sushi and fall in love with this amazing genre of food? There is a great sushi restaurant within 15 minutes of anyone in Hamilton County. If you have not had the pleasure of enjoying sushi at one of our local eateries, I encourage you to bring your adventurous spirit and stop in. v

Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2011

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   

   

   

      

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   

  

  

   

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  

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   

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    

    

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   

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February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

new faces of the chamber *Photos taken by Focal Point Studios

Dennis O’Malia* Current Publishing.

Mark Miller* Mark Miller Cleaning

Matt Nettleson* Trustpointe

Craig Toby* Fishers Hospitality & Conerence Center

Todd Rimer* CN Design & Marketing

Allan Anderson Pinheads

Katie Robinson American Cancer Society

Lynne Coverdale Stonegate Mortgage Corp.

Jeff Laughlin Priority Press

Jeffrey Lenz FedEx Office

Diana Liberatore Indiana Mattress Company

schedule of events Morning Motivator Networking Breakfast Feb. 2, 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Fishers Train Station

Monthly Luncheon February 16 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

FORUM Conference Center

Legislative Breakfast March 14 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Mansion at Oakhill

Navigating the Chamber February 8 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Fishers Train Station

Business After Hours February 23 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Fishers Conference Center

Monthly Luncheon March 16 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

FORUM Conference Center

Legislative Breakfast February 14 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Mansion at Oakhill

Navigating the Chamber March 9 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Fishers Train Station

Business After Hours March 23 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Stonegate Mortgage

FISHERS

Kris Conover York’s Quality Air

Leo LaGrotte* Life Settlement Adviors

www.fisherschamber.com

Mike Emerson* Key Bank

Duane Collins* Cyberian Technologies

For event details, please visit www.FishersChamber.com or call the chamber 317.578.0700.

Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2011

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Hamilton north Chamber 70 n. Byron Street Cicero, in 46034 317-984-4079

Upcoming Events!

FEBRUARY 2011

Tuesday, February 1 ~ HNCC Luncheon, 11:30 am

Speakers: Keith Ecker, Principal and Debra Curfman, Literacy Coach, Hamilton Heights Primary School, “Impacts of Poverty on Literacy and What the Community Can Do”

www.hamiltonnorthchamber.com

HAMILTON NORTH

Monday, February 14 ~ Legislative Breakfast, 7:30 am

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The Mansion at Oak Hill

Thursday, February 24 ~ Outlook 2011, 7:30 am Ritz Charles, Carmel

Tuesday, February 25 ~ “Marketing for Small Business”, 7:30 am

Registration at Cambria Suites, 13500 Teglar Drive, Noblesville, hosted by Indy Star Media, free for chamber members

MARCH 2011

Debbie Beaudin accepts the 4th Quarter Bell of Recognition from Jane Hunter, HNCC Executive Director. Debbie also received the Red Bridge Award from the Town of Cicero. Both awards were primarily to recognize Debbie’s tireless efforts on the Lights Over Morse Lake Committee to ensure an organized and festive 4th of July for Cicero residents and the many visitors each year. Debbie is the manager of the Cicero KeyBank branch and serves on the Chamber Executive Board as Secretary

Tuesday, March 1 ~ HNCC Luncheon, 11:30 am

CORRECTION: Brandon Anderson was misidentified as Dustin Stines, in the last issue. Brandon is a memberof the Arcadia Arts Initiative.

We are sorry for any confusion this may have caused.

Red Bridge Park Community Building, Non-Profit Mini Showcase

Monday, March 14 ~ Legislative Breakfast, 7:30 am The Mansion at Oak Hill

HolidAy lunCHeon

Hamilton Heights High School Espirit Singers

Steve Zell, Cicero Christian Gary Zent, Dunlap Tavel Church going through the Fork Wealth Management; Cindy in the Road Catering buffet line White, First Merchants Bank and Barbara Fife, Dunlap Tavel Wealth Management

Debbie Beaudin, KeyBank; Carmen Clift, Beck’s Chimney Sweep; Cathy Birden, KeyBank help check members into Holiday Luncheon

HAMilton nortH BuSineSS SHoWCASe And CHili Cook-oFF

Don Graves, The Lodge Assisted Living

Toucan Annie’s Mexican Grill

Lockwood’s Service Station

Talent Auto Body Shop

Hedgehog Music Showcase

Paul Munoz, Town of Cicero accepting the People’s Choice Award from Craig Penwell and Maureen Price

Others members participating included Wolfie’s Waterfront Grill, Cicero Market, US Credit Restoration Association, dpb Home Inspections, Moon Talk Designs, Day’s Healthy Living Pharmacy, Edward Jones/Corey Sylvester, Paramount Mortgage, Penwell Insurance, Hamilton County Chiropractic, Dunlap Tavel Wealth Management, Agape Therapeutic Riding Resources, Riverview Hospital, Visiting Nurse Service, Logan Street Signs, Hamilton Heights Educational Foundation

GrAnd oPeninG

Toucan Annie’s Mexican Grill celebrated their Grand Opening with a Ribbon Cutting, from right: Jim Hogle, Maureen Price, Dave Galt representing the Chamber’s Executive Board, Ellen and Steve Rosebrock, owners, and Earl Tharp and Corey Sylvester, fellow chamber members

February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

neW MeMBerS Alice O’Brian, Alice’s Restaurant joined the Chamber in October.

Sean Goble, Paramount Mortgage joined the Chamber in October

Other new members: Joe Veger, Prudential Insurance, Fusek’s Hardware, The Times

UPComing EvEntS! FEBRUARY 2011

February 14 - Legislative Breakfast 8:00 a.m.

Hamilton County Legislative Task Force The Mansion at Oak Hill - 5801 E. 116th Street

MARCH 2011

March 9 – Chamber University 8:00 – 11:30 a.m.

What is Your Business “App”titude for Success?

Chamber Office - 601 E. Conner Street

February 17 - Business After Hours 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.

March 10 – NetWORKS! 7:30 a.m.

February 24 – Membership Luncheon 11:30 a.m.

March 14 - Legislative Breakfast 8:00 a.m.

The Mansion at Oak Hill - 5801 E. 116th Street

The Farmers Bank - 16940 Clover Road

COMMUNITY PRIDE AWARD

March 23 – Membership Luncheon 11:30 a.m.

Sponsored by Chamber Legacy Partner Community Bank Harbour Trees Golf Club - 333 Regents Park Lane

Cindy White, outgoing chairman of the board of directors of the Chamber with her husband Marshall White, who was recognized at the December 1 membership luncheon, for his service and contributions on the Chamber’s government affairs committee.

Noblesville High School teacher Charles Emmert, who has taught at NHS since 1964, presented a certificate of recognition honoring NHS senior Reece Clark. Reece is an accomplished student and is a finalist for the Wells Scholarship at Indiana University. He was named a National Merit Commended Scholar as a junior and received an AP Scholar with Honor award this year.

March 29 – Taste of Business in Noblesville 4:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Hamilton County Fairgrounds - 2001 E. Pleasant Street

Aaron’s Sales and Lease Ownership, located at 451 Noble Creek Drive, celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on December 17. Joining Mayor Ditslear in the festivities were, (l-r) Greg Wyant, Noblesville Fire Department; Sandy Sears, Best Buy; Marilyn Garcia, Halo Hair Studio; Cindy White, First Merchants Bank; Marshall White; Aaron Wilson, Carlos Parodi, and Michael Bennett with Aaron’s; Judi Johnson, City of Noblesville, Steve Benedict; and Joe Stepke with Aaron’s.

The Chamber Ambassadors are our out-stretched hand greeting you at all Chamber events. We are ever so grateful for all that they do. Please let them know you appreciate their help! Chamber Ambassadors attending the December 1 membership luncheon were Shari Porter, Indiana Kitchen Company; Norman Merlet, John Hancock Financial Services; Angie Sutton, Angie Sutton State Farm Insurance; Laura Mercer, KeyBank; Gabrielle Sauce, SaucePan Creative, chairman of the committee; Leeca Smith, Maurices; Cindy White, First Merchants Bank; Lindsay Sweet, First Merchants Bank; and Bryan Miller, STAR Financial Bank. Not pictured here are Syd Loomis, The Farmers Bank, Steve Benedict; Craig & Heather Penwell, Penwell Insurance; Sandy Sears, Best Buy; Loretta Moore, Prevail; Garrett Doan, KeyBank; Heather Snell, PNC Bank; Lauren Heiden, FORUM Credit Union; and Susan Foellinger, Real Estate Links.

www.noblesvillechamber.com

Community Pride Award for Excellence for December was presented to The Faux Flower in recognition of the gorgeous and fun animated holiday décor in the shop’s windows.

Owner Michael Delk is a creative genius in bringing the spirit of the season to young and old alike. The shop is located at 84 S. 9th Street. Visit soon while the elves are still at work!

Sydney Loomis The Farmers Bank

Hamilton County Legislative Task Force The Mansion at Oak Hill - 5801 E. 116th Street

NOBLESVILLE

Sponsored by Chamber Legacy Partner Riverview Hospital Harbour Trees Golf Club - 333 Regents Park Lane

NEW MEMBERS

noblesville Chamber 601 Conner Street noblesville, in 46060 317-773-0086

Seek out our new members at the next Chamber event you attend and help make them feel welcome!

David Hartman On-Duty Depot

Fred Rhodes & Bill McAtee McAtee’s Painting, Inc.

Marilyn Garcia Halo Hair Studio

Clare Scales H&R Block

Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2011

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Sheridan Chamber 407 S. Main Street P.o. Box 202 Sheridan, in 46069 317-758-1311

Upcoming Chamber Luncheons 2011 Monthly Luncheon Dates January 27, 2011

www.sheridanchamber.org

SHERIDAN

Sheridan Chamber Member Luncheon Sheridan Public Library - 11:30am-12:30pm

Speaker - James Sanborn, author of “Shanghai RememberedGrowing Up In A Japanese Concentration Camp“

April 28, 2011 May 26, 2011 June 23, 2011

July 28, 2011 Aug 25, 2011 Oct. 27, 2011

February 24, 2011 Sheridan Chamber Member Luncheon 11:30am-12:30pm

Speaker - Darren Crouser Darren, owner, Sheridan Airport grew up in Dallas, Texas around sports cars and airplanes. Moved to Indianapolis in 1997 to work for CART IndyCar Team Patrick Racing. While flying vintage airplanes in the Indy became familiar with the Sheridan Airports facility and services offered. Purchased in late 2008 when the facility was offered for sale and in danger of being returned to a corn field.

March 24, 2011 Sheridan Chamber Monthly Luncheon 11:30-12:30 Speaker-Eric Dickerson Location to be determined

2011 Information Want to advertise your business during a Sheridan Chamber Lunch?

Elect to sponsor a luncheon and start the meeting advertising your business.

Call the Sheridan Chamber office for details at 317-758-1311 Sheridan Town Council

Meets 2nd and 4th Thursday @ Town Hall 6p.m.

Kiwanis Club

Meets every Friday morning at 7 a.m.

The Sheridan Public Library, 103 W. First St.

Lions Club

Meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. at the Community Center

Rotary Club

Meets every Tuesday evening at 6:15 p.m. at the Community Center

Meet Sheridan’s new Executive Director Patty Nicholas has been on the job for about a month now. She’s lived in Sheridan for 16 years, married to her husband, Paul, for 24 years. She has 2 children. Her daughter is a 4th grade teacher in Sheridan, and her son is a freshman at Anderson University. She has worked at many jobs in her lifetime, most recently as office manager/secretary for a church in Noblesville.

What attracted you to this job? The job description had a lot of things that I enjoy doing: meeting lots of new people, event planning, fundraising, setting up meetings.

What do you see as your biggest challenge? Trying to bring it all together, working with unfamiliar databases, trying to set up a community calender, and getting the Chamber somewhat organized.

Be sure to visit the Sheridan Chamber Website, www.sheridanchamber.org for information on all upcoming events!

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February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

FEBRUARY 2011

MARCH 2011

Hilton Garden Inn ~ 13090 Pennsylvania Street ~ Carmel Reservations required by January 31st. $10 for Chamber Members $20 for non members. RSVP to 317-804-3030 or events@westfield-chamber.org. Be sure to bring plenty of business cards and other promotional materials!

Old Country Buffet ~ Village Park Plaza – Westfield Individuals pay for lunch at the door then meet in back room RSVP to (317) 804-3030 or events@westfield-chamber.org

Westfield & Carmel Chamber Joint Networking Breakfast Thursday, February 3rd ~ 7:30 - 9:00 a.m.

Economic Development Meeting Monday, February 7th ~ 11:30 a.m.

Legislative Breakfast February 14th ~ 7:30 to 9:00 a.m.

Membership Luncheon - Networking Thursday, February 17th ~ 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

CrossRoads Church at Westfield ~ 191st & Grassy Branch Westfield - Members with reservations: $15; guests: $20 Reservations required by February 11th: 317-804-3030 or events@westfield-chamber.org

Outlook 2011 Thursday, February 24th ~ 7:30 am

Ritz Charles, 12156 N. Meridian St. - Carmel, IN 46032 More Information & Reservations Hamilton County Alliance: 317-573-4950

Star Media presents: “Marketing for small business” February 24th ~ 7:30 -9:00 a.m.

Hosted by the Carmel , Noblesville and Westfield Chambers The Mansion at Oak Hill ~ 5801 East 116th Street ~ Carmel $10 for Chamber Members ~$20 for non members.

RSVP to 317-804-3030 or events@westfield-chamber.org

Legislative Breakfast Monday, March 14th ~ 7:30 - 9:00 a.m.

The Mansion at Oak Hill ~ 5801 East 116th Street ~ Carmel $15 members; $20 non-members - RSVP by March 7th to (317) 804-3030 or info@westfiled-chamber.org

Membership Luncheon Thursday, March 17th~ 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

The Palomino Ballroom ~ 481 South County 1200 East Members with a reservation: $15.00 ~ Walk-ins, non-members, and all billables: $20.00.

RSVP to (317) 804-3030 or events@westfield-chamber.org For more information go visit our website at www.westfield-chamber.org

Connect 2! ~ Carmel & Westfield Chambers of Commerce Business After Hours Thursday, March 24th ~ 5:00 - 7:00 pm

Kelties ~ 110 South Union Street – Downtown Westfield No charge. RSVP: (317) 804-3030 or events@westfield-chamber.org

GrAnd oPeninG: ColliSion Cure Body WerkS

Hilton Garden Inn ~ 13090 Pennsylvania Street ~ Carmel Chamber members are free, Non Chamber Members are $20.00. Breakfast is included for all guests.

RSVP to events@westfield-chamber.org

GrAnd oPeninG: little CAeSAr’S PiZZA

www.westfield-chamber.org

The Mansion at Oak Hill ~ 801 East 116th Street Chamber Members $15; Non-members $20 Reservations due by February 7th: 317-804-3030 or events@westfield-chamber.org. Organized and presented by the Hamilton County Business Issues Committee

Joint Networking Breakfast March 10th 7:30- 9:00 a.m.

WESTFIELD

Old Country Buffet ~ Village Park Plaza –Westfield Individuals pay at the door and gather in the Westfield Business Center room. Reservations: 317-804-3030 or events@westfield-chamber.org

Economic Development Meeting Monday, March 7th ~ 11:30 a.m -1:00 p.m.

Westfield Chamber 130 Penn Street P.o. Box 534 Westfield, in 46074 317-804-3030

Owner Lou Nestorovski along with staff, friends and Chamber board members celebrate the opening of Little Caesar’s Pizza All Chamber event dates, timers and locations are subject to change.

Please call 317-804-3030 or visit www.westfield-chamber.org for details.

Mayor Cook with owners Lynn and Rick Fields celebrate the grand opening of Collision Cure Body Werks

Visit our nEw wEbsitE at www.westfield-chamber.org Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2011

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Hamilton County History

All The County’s a Stage The Theater Business in Hamilton County armel’s Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts is taking live performances in Hamilton County to a new level. The county has long had an interest in musical and theatrical performances, but didn’t have a proper venue until late in the 19th century. In the early years, there may have been early troupes of actors traveling through who would perform in tavern yards and barns. Indianapolis had its first professional performance in 1823 and its first theater (in a rehabilitated newspaper office) opened sometime around 1841. Hamilton County would have been a more likely stop after the first railroad was built in 1851.

opened on September 22, 1884 with a performance by a New York troupe of the play The Two Orphans. (Interestingly, this play was put on at the Belfry Theater in 2008.)

Opening night tickets at the Wild Opera House were $1, which was later lowered to 25 cents.

The structure proved very difficult to tear down – four layers of brick wouldn’t just be knocked over.

He didn’t seem to be interested in theaters until his first wife died in 1878 and he married Martha Pontious in 1884.

Apparently she was the one who wanted to have a good quality theater. After the opera house was built she was said to have gone to every performance and watched from one of the private boxes.

The first available site for traveling troupes was “City Hall”.

This was not a government building, but a name given to the upper floor of the building constructed in 1866 for the Noblesville Masonic lodge, which currently houses Smith Jewelers and Noble Coffee and Tea. This hall was a place for public dinners and performances of all kinds including Carlin’s Silver Cornet Band, one of the Noblesville town bands in the mid-nineteenth century.

The first dedicated professional theater in the county was the first Wild Opera House – a wooden building constructed at the corner of 9th and Clinton in Noblesville. It

Leonard Wild was born in Germany in 1834, immigrated to Hamilton county in 1855, and started a dry goods and grocery business. He was very successful, later branching out into businesses like milling and banking, buying land and building houses, and, in the end, becoming very wealthy.

The locals knew him by his nickname of “Boss”.

The first opera house did quite well until it burned to the ground in 1891, about 45 minutes after it had hosted the high school graduation. Undaunted, Boss Wild started anew, this time on the site of an old livery stable on South 9th street. He built more solidly this time, with brick walls four layers thick and firewalls between sections.

The front section was a three story building, with stores on the first floor and in the basement, which was 10’ deep and had a cement floor. There were professional offices on the second floor, and large meeting rooms on the third floor.

The meeting rooms were used by the Commercial Club, the forerunner of today’s Chamber of Commerce.

The theater opened on November 25, 1895, with the play “Charley’s Aunt”, performed by one of Charles Frohman’s touring companies. The evening was a great success despite a torrential downpour. One sign of the theater’s professional status was its inclusion in Julius Cahn’s Official Theatrical Guide, the “bible” of the professional touring companies.

The auditorium behind the office section was two stories high, with a balcony and a truss roof. Between 1895 and 1909, the seating capacity was 800 people. The theater

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David Heighway

February • March 2011/Hamilton County Business Magazine

Exterior and interior of the Wild Opera House in 1905.

was redone in 1915 and by 1922, with sensible new fire codes in place, the capacity was lowered to 450. The stage was 66 feet by 34 feet with a proscenium 29 feet wide and 20 feet high. The fly space above the stage – when the curtain went up, this is where it went – was 50 feet high. The whole structure was 68 feet wide and 132 feet long.

Leonard Wild died in 1909 and the theater passed into other hands. His wife, Martha, who was so influential in the construction, died in 1931. The Opera House continued to be the center of entertainment for the county and hosted a variety of programs, including the Noblesville Military Band and other music concerts, magic lantern shows, political events, and vaudeville acts such as magicians, dancers and bathing beauties. Films started being

BUSINESS RESOURCE DIRECTORY shown around the time of World War I, first as additions to the main program, then as features.

After the Second World War, the Diana Theater was the main movie house in Noblesville and the Wild was falling into disrepair. It had been owned since the late 1930’s by absentee landlords in Bloomington. In 1959, the Noblesville Parking Commission wanted to create the first public lot in the city and it was decided the Wild was the most likely spot. The structure proved very difficult to tear down – four layers of brick wouldn’t just be knocked over. After several attempts, the demolition company finally burned all the wooden support joists and pulled the walls down from inside. The building was reduced to rubble by December, and the newspaper compared the debris to bombedout buildings from WWII. Despite the lack of a performance venue, plays and concerts were still conducted by amateur groups. For many years Noblesville had a Shakespeare Society and towns like Atlanta and Sheridan had bands. The Hamilton County Theater Guild was formed forty-four years ago and still produces plays at the Belfry Theater. While some professional groups were formed, such as the Carmel Symphony Orchestra in 1975, the first professional venue built after the destruction of the Wild Opera House was Deer Creek Music Center – later called Verizon Wireless Music Center – in 1989.

Signs and Banners

Service Club Rotary International

Logan Street Signs & Banners 1720 South 10th Street, Noblesville, IN 317-773-7200 Open M-F 7-5 www.loganstreetsigns.com www.noblesvilletrophies.com www.noblesville.com

The Noblesville Midday Rotary Club is one of 32,000 local Rotary clubs throughout the world and six in Hamilton County. Open to all persons regardless of race, color, creed or political preference, Rotary brings together business and professional leaders to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. Each club meets weekly. For more information on the Noblesville Midday Rotary Club. Call Gloria Davis 317-877-0051

Printing Financial Forms and Systems, Inc. www.financialformsandsystems.com 317-726-7385

FFS is a locally owned supplier of business checks, envelopes, commercial print, stamps, office supplies and anything else you need to keep your business running. We offer free delivery in Hamilton County and can usually have what you need the next business day. Contact Scott Tyree at 317-726-7385 for a fast quote.

Computer Consulting

Public performances have continued from a variety of groups such as the Noblesville Cultural Arts Commission, who produce Shakespeare in the Park and band concerts, and Carmel Community Players, (both with 18 years of experience), along with more recent arrivals like the Actors Theater of Indiana, and the Noblesville Symphony Orchestra. Now with the construction of the Palladium and the Tarkington Theater in Carmel, high-quality, professionallevel theater buildings are making a return. v David Heighway is the Hamilton County historian

Commercial Lease Space River Edge Professional Center and River Edge Market Place Noblesville, IN Call John Landy at 317-289-7662 jcl@roamermaritime.com

65,000 square feet of flexible floor plans. Design and build to your specifications. Time Share space available. Retail space also available from 1,600 square feet up.

Easy access and abundant parking! High speed internet. 3 minutes from Riverview Hospital.

Freelance Graphic Design

Compumed – 802 Mulberry Street Noblesville, IN, Suite BB3 317-340-4802 Rocky@compumed-indy.com

The Wild Opera House in 1896

Digitally printed signs and banners of any size, vehicle wraps and graphics, T-shirt printing, laser engraving. Great customer service, fast turnaround. Family Owned and Operated. Serving Noblesville and Hamilton County since 1992.

Also home of Noblesville Trophies 773-7391 Open M-F 9-6 Sat. 10-2

• Business Computer Hardware and Software Installation • Custom Application Development • On-Site Support and Service

Mezign Design 11505 River Drive East, Carmel, IN Call Melanie at 317-306-8984 melzee@indy.rr.com Mezign Design offers graphic design services for anything from business cards to billboards, specializing in print and web advertising. Reasonable rates, modern design and fast turnaround.

Give Mezign Design a try. You’ll be glad you did.

C A R M E L’ S S U P E R B A R B E R S Dave Snider, Owner - Master Barber

Classic Barber Shop

2462 East 116th Street, Carmel, IN 46032 Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

Shop: (317) 843-2500 • Cell: 698-6360 dwsnider@sbcglobal.net • www.barberclassic.com

Hamilton County Business Magazine/February • March 2011

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